Sandro Tonali
Arsenal are reportedly ‘exploring’ an ambitious deadline day deal for Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali, as per transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg.
The Gunners currently have Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice and Mikel Merino as deeper midfield options. However, the Dane has struggled to find regular game time thus far this season, failing to start any game in the Premier League.
On the other hand, Merino has mainly played as a rotational option this season and has even provided cover in the centre-forward position amid Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres’ injury absence.
However, the Spaniard has sustained a bone injury in his right foot and is set to undergo surgery. As a result, he is set to remain sidelined for an extended period.
Zubimendi and Rice have been taking on enormous workloads this season. Amid Merino’s injury absence, the duo would have to play almost every game between now and the end of this season unless the North London club decide to sign a new midfielder before 7pm deadline.
On X, Plettenberg claims that Arsenal have identified Tonali as a serious option to strengthen the midfield and are ‘exploring’ the possibility of signing him before the deadline.
However, sealing the deal would be extremely difficult as Newcastle have no intention of weakening their squad in mid-season with the Magpies still competing on all fronts. They have already rejected Arsenal’s initial approach.
Plettenberg said:
“Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro Tonali. Very difficult at this stage, as Newcastle have rejected an initial approach.”
Tonali to Arsenal
Tonali is valued at around £65m by Transfermarkt and has a contract until 2028 at St James’ Park. So, Eddie Howe’s side are in a strong position to demand a huge fee if they are forced to cash-in on him today.
Tonali is a defensive midfielder by trait but is also comfortable in the box-to-box role. He is quick, strong, has an eye for scoring goals from distance and is also efficient in defensive contributions.
The Italian is a top-class player and is currently at the prime stage of his career. So, he would be a great coup for Arsenal should they eventually manage to secure his service.